World Mental Health Day, celebrated every year on October 10, emphasizes the significance of mental well-being, especially among young people. Despite the increasing need for mental health support, the issue remains largely underfunded and often overlooked in the region.

A review of the Giving Balkans database reveals that in the past five years, only five instances of donations specifically aimed at supporting mental health initiatives in Kosovo have been recorded. This highlights a significant gap in public and corporate investment in mental health, indicating that increased attention, funding, and action are necessary to support the mental well-being of young individuals.

Addressing Mental Health Challenges Among Kosovo’s Youth

Research shows that mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and chronic stress are increasing among young people, especially in a post-pandemic world. These challenges, intensified by societal pressures and uncertainty about the future, often remain unaddressed. In this context, where mental health challenges are increasingly recognized but often inadequately addressed, civil society organizations (CSOs) have the opportunity to offer crucial support through innovative programs and initiatives. By utilizing their unique insights and community connections, these organizations can effectively fill the gaps left by other institutions, providing targeted resources and tailored interventions that meet the specific needs of young people.

Strategies for CSOs to Support Mental Health

CSOs can implement several key strategies to address youth mental health, even though they still need greater financial support and greater community awareness to make a lasting impact.

1. School-Based Mental Health Programs

Educational institutions play a crucial role in supporting youth mental health, and CSOs can collaborate with schools to provide in-school services. These initiatives may include:

  • In-School Counseling: Providing students access to trained counselors during school hours allows them to receive support in a familiar and trusted environment.
  • Teacher Training: Equipping teachers with the skills to recognize early signs of mental health issues through various trainings, ensures that schools take a proactive role in early intervention.
  • Wellness Rooms: Establishing dedicated spaces within schools for students to practice mindfulness, take breaks, and receive guidance can significantly contribute to their well-being.

These initiatives not only aim to address existing mental health issues but also focus on prevention by promoting emotional resilience and encouraging open conversations about mental well-being.

2. Youth Outreach and Awareness Campaigns

CSOs can also focus on raising awareness through outreach campaigns targeted at youth. These initiatives can:

  • Empower youth to share their stories: Encouraging young people to share their experiences, helps normalize conversations about mental health and reduces stigma.
  • Provide practical resources: Distributing mental health toolkits through campaigns that offer advice on managing stress and anxiety, helps share information on understanding common mental health issues.
  • Encourage open conversations: Creating safe spaces for young people to discuss mental health challenges, helps break the taboo around seeking support for mental health needs.

These efforts are key in encouraging young people to recognize when they need assistance and feel comfortable in seeking help.

3. Community-Based Support Groups

CSOs can establish community-based support groups as an effective approach to help youth in managing their mental health. These groups can:

  • Offer peer support: Small, peer-led groups provide a sense of community, helping young people feel less isolated in their struggles.
  • Create a judgment-free environment: These support groups can represent safe spaces where participants can openly discuss their challenges without the fear of stigma.
  • Build lasting connections: Many participants develop lasting friendships and support networks, which can extend beyond the meetings.

Support groups are an essential resource for those who may feel uncomfortable seeking formal mental health services but still need emotional support.

4. Online Mental Health Resources and Hotlines

CSOs can also leverage technology to provide online mental health resources. These tools can:

  • Offer 24/7 support: Online platforms, apps, and mental health hotlines offer support at any time, which is particularly beneficial for those who might struggle with in-person consultations.
  • Ensure anonymity: Many young people value the privacy and confidentiality that digital platforms offer, making it easier for them to seek help.
  • Include interactive tools: Some apps include mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques, and personalized mental health tracking.

Given the significant amount of time young people spend online, these resources are designed to be readily accessible , ensuring that support is just a click away.

5. Workshops and Mental Health Education

Workshops are another effective tool that nonprofits can use to promote mental health education. These sessions can:

  • Teach practical coping strategies: Through workshops which are focused on stress management, mindfulness, and emotional regulation, provide an opportunity to equip young people with tools to manage their mental health proactively.
  • Involve parents and teachers: Invite parents and educators to participate in workshops, to ensure that the support system extends beyond the individual.
  • Provide hands-on experience: Through activities like journaling, mindfulness exercises, and discussions, engage participants in making the learning experience more interactive and impactful.

The goal of such workshops are to provide a supportive environment where young individuals can acquire skills to maintain mental wellness in the long run.

The Urgent Need for Mental Health Investment: The fact that only five instances of donations have been dedicated to mental health causes in Kosovo over the past five years highlights a broader issue: mental health is not yet a priority in the country. The lack of prioritization and investment from public and private institutions, along with relevant stakeholders, places a heavy reliance on CSOs. However, without adequate funding, their ability to expand and sustain these essential programs will remain limited. To nurture a mentally healthy generation of young people, more attention and investment from both the public and private sectors are crucial.

How to Support Youth Mental Health Initiatives in Kosovo: If you are interested to support and contribute to youth mental health in Kosovo, here are a few ways to get involved:

  • Donate to CSOs working to improve mental health resources and services.
  • Volunteer your time or expertise to assist in organizing workshops, support groups, or outreach initiatives.
  • Raise awareness about mental health challenges and support local campaigns that aim to reduce the stigma.
  • Advocate for stronger policies and greater investment in mental health from businesses, government bodies, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and other relevant stakeholders, ensuring that mental health support is available through all areas of society,

Collective efforts can ensure that mental health receives the necessary attention and support, to protect the future of Kosovo’s youth whilst supporting their mental wellbeing.

This article is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Catalyst Balkans and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

The Citizen Engagement Activity in Kosovo is a five-year initiative implemented by Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).